Vacuum Cleaning Apparatus

ABSTRACT

A vacuum cleaning apparatus comprises a cleaning head ( 102 ) having a lower surface ( 110 ) which in use is located adjacent a surface to be cleaned. An airflow channel ( 112 ) is defined within the cleaning head ( 102 ) having a first end configured for connection to a vacuum source, and a second end defining an opening ( 118 ) proximate the lower surface ( 110 ) of the cleaning head ( 102 ) through which a vacuum is applied to the cleaning surface. At least one vibration element ( 130 ) is located proximate the lower surface ( 110 ) of the cleaning head ( 102 ) that is arranged to apply vibration to the cleaning surface when the cleaning head is located adjacent thereto. In addition, at least one vibration actuator ( 136 ) is included for causing the at least one vibration element ( 130 ) to vibrate. The at least one vibration actuator ( 136 ) is located within a sealed enclosure which is sealed from the airflow through the airflow channel ( 112 ) to isolate the actuator ( 136 ) therefrom.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is the national stage of International Patent Application No. PCT/GB2013/051229 filed on May 13, 2013, which claims priority to British Patent Application No. GB 1208873.8 filed on May 17, 2012 and to British Patent Application No. GB 1301468.3 filed on Jan. 28, 2013, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The present invention relates to vacuum cleaning apparatus and in particular to a cleaning head for a vacuum cleaner.

2. Related Art

A vacuum cleaner typically comprises a main body containing means for generating a vacuum such as a motor-driven fan unit, and a cleaning head connected to the main body. The cleaning head engages the cleaning surface, which is typically flooring, and includes a suction opening connected via an air pathway to the vacuum source. The cleaning head applies the generated vacuum to the cleaning surface and allows an airflow containing debris such as dust and fibres to be drawn from the cleaning surface through the suction opening to a receptacle for storing the debris for onward disposal.

Vacuum cleaners are provide in varying forms in including generally upright cleaners in which the cleaning head is directly connected to the body, cylinder or pull-along cleaners in which the cleaning head is connected to the main body via a hose, and hand-held cleaners.

A cleaning head defines the part of the vacuum cleaning system that is in direct contact with the material being cleaned to apply the vacuum to the surface. It has been found that vacuum cleaners that rely solely on the vacuum source for cleaning can apply too great a vacuum to the material or object being cleaned, and thereby give rise to a tendency for debris to be torn from the surface, and to “grabbing” of the surface which can undesirably lead to lifting of a carpet or pulling of a curtain.

The cleaning efficiency may be improved by providing the cleaning head with an agitator, usually in the form of a driven brush or ‘beater’ bar that is rotatably mounted within airflow channel of the cleaner head. The brush bar comprises rows of bristles provided on a rotatable cylinder core bearing bristles which extend radially outward from the core. The suction opening is located at the bottom of the brush bar chamber, and the brush bar is mounted within the chamber so as to protrude by a small extent. The purpose of the brush bar is to agitate the cleaning surface to disturb debris from the surface and place it into suspension in the inlet airflow, to improve the cleaning efficiency.

However, beater brushes have been shown to cause damage to the cleaning surface due to the scraping action of the rotating brushes, and due to the abrasive impact of the bars. The beater brushes also provide an unintended abrasive action as debris trapped within the bristles is rotated against the cleaning surface. This can lead to degradation of the cleaning surface, and in particular carpets, whose fibres consequently become damaged, and to the cleaning of surfaces such as wooden flooring which have a necessary protective and aesthetic finish which can be damaged.

It has also been found that the beater bars do not effectively agitate debris into the vacuum airflow. While some surface level debris may be dislodges, beater bars are not effective in dislodging debris from deeper within the pile of a carpet.

Moreover, such beater systems also give rise to problems due to the ease with which debris such as hairs, and the like, build up in the brush/bar system, thereby requiring constant cleaning, which is itself, difficult to achieve, and time-consuming, due to the need for the dismantling of certain parts of the vacuum cleaner. The build up of hairs and debris also causes the vacuum system to demonstrate reduced efficiency.

Alternatives to these upright cleaners, are the lighter, and easier to use, cylinder based vacuum cleaners, which may also use rotating brushes/bars, and require different cleaning methods for curtains, wall coverings, carpets and hard surfaces. However, these cylinder versions tend not to have efficient rotating brushes/bars, due to their need for incorporation of the brushes/bars into the design of the actual cleaning heads.

As an alternative to beater bars it has been proposed to utilise vibration mechanisms for agitating debris from a cleaning surface. DE 122011000507 describes a vacuum cleaner nozzle including a vibration plate located within the airflow channel of the nozzle which substantially spans the nozzle opening. The vibration plate is actuated by a drive shaft that is operated by a eccentrically mounted pin rotated by a motor. The vibration plate is actuated to impart vibrations to the cleaning surface and includes a plurality of apertures which permit the flow of debris carrying air through the plate and into the airflow channel Arrangements such as that of DE′507 have not been capable of introduction into a production model vacuum cleaner due to issues surrounding the maintenance of the actuating mechanism, and in particular fouling of the mechanism by debris within the airflow. In addition, such mechanisms are prone to failure due to the large bending moments generated by the vibration plate relative to its connection to the motor.

It is therefore desirable to provide an improved vacuum cleaner apparatus which addresses the above described problems and/or which offers improvements generally.

According to the present invention there is provided a vacuum cleaning apparatus as described in the accompanying claims.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the invention there is provided a vacuum cleaning apparatus comprising a cleaning head having a lower surface which in use is located adjacent a surface to be cleaned; an airflow channel defined within the cleaning head having a first end configured for connection to a vacuum source, and a second end defining an opening proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head through which a vacuum is applied to the cleaning surface; at least one vibration element located proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head arranged to apply vibration to the cleaning surface when the cleaning head is located adjacent thereto; and at least one vibration actuator for causing the at least one vibration element to vibrate. The at least one vibration actuator is located within a sealed enclosure which is sealed from the airflow through the airflow channel to isolate the actuator therefrom.

Providing the actuator within a sealed enclosure advantageously prevents fouling of the actuating mechanism which enables the mechanism to require little or no maintenance.

The at least one vibration element preferably comprises a vibration bar having a lower surface for impacting the cleaning surface to impart vibration thereto, and an upper surface connected to the corresponding vibration actuator. At least part of the vibration bar closes the enclosure. Using the vibration bar to at least in part close the enclosure enables the actuating mechanism to be directly connected to the vibration bar without requiring a complex linkage and sealing arrangement, while also minimising parts.

The enclosure may be defined by at least one wall forming a chamber defining. The chamber has an open end which is in part closed by the vibration bar. As such, the chamber acts in the main to seal and protect the actuator, with the only opening to the chamber being closed by the vibration bar. The chamber prevents the through flow of air over the mechanism, and as such, even if some air were to enter the chamber this would cause minimal debris deposition as compared to directly exposing the mechanism within the inlet airflow.

A seal is preferably provided between the vibration bar and the chamber to seal the chamber and prevent the ingress of debris. While the use of the vibration bar to close the chamber provides a good degree of protection for the actuator, the use of a seal further increases of the efficacy of the protection afforded to the actuator by preventing the ingress of debris via the gap between the movable vibration bar and the chamber.

A proximal edge of the vibration bar may hingedly connected to one edge of the chamber proximate the open end with a distal edge of the bar being rotatable relative to said hinge, and wherein a seal is provided between the distal edge of the vibration bar and the chamber. The seal is preferably a flexible membrane which is configured to permit rotation of the vibration bar while maintaining a seal between the distal edge of the bar and the chamber.

The hinged connection between the vibration bar and the chamber comprises a seal which permits movement of the hinge while maintaining a seal between the bar and the chamber. This further reduces the ingress of debris into the actuator enclosure thereby further reducing the risk of fouling.

The cleaning head comprises transverse and longitudinal axes with the longitudinal axis in use defining the direction of travel, and front and rear edges with the front edge in use defining the leading edge of the cleaning head. Preferably the sealed enclosure comprises a chamber having front and rear walls oriented transversely to the direction of travel having lower edges which define at least in part an elongate opening of the chamber with the vibration bar being located within the opening. The elongate opening extending transversely across the cleaning head maximises the contact area of the vibration bar while minimising interference with the airflow channel.

The vibration actuator preferably comprises at least one motor and at least one corresponding weight member arranged to be rotated by the motor, the weight member being arranged such that its centre of mass is eccentric from the rotation axis of the motor to cause vibration during rotation. This arrangement advantageously obviates the requirement for a connection linkage between the actuator and the vibration bar thereby reducing the number of moving parts and associated failure rates.

The vibration bar is preferably hingedly connected to one of the front and rear walls and the vibration actuator is arranged such that the weight member is rotated in a direction substantially orthogonal to the rotational axis of the hinge, which causes the bar to vibrationally rotate about the hinge.

The weight member is preferably rotated in a direction away from the hinge such that it is moving downwardly at the point of rotation furthest from the hinge and upwardly at the point of rotation closest to the hinge. This arrangement maximises the downward force and movement imparted to the bar by the actuator thereby maximising vibrational efficiency and efficacy, and enabling the size and weight of the actuator to be kept to a minimum.

The upper surface of the vibration bar includes a channel configured to receive the at least one vibration actuator, which is preferably substantially cylindrical in shape which the channel having a correspondingly radiussed profile. This enables the actuator to be effectively and securely mounted to the bar and a low cost and efficient manner.

The enclosure may be located forwardly and outside of the airflow channel proximate the leading edge of the cleaning head.

The power source for the vibration actuator is preferably contained within the cleaning head. Providing an independent power source within the head allows the head to be removably, which is particularly desirable in pull-along vacuum cleaners which have interchangeable heads. This also obviates the requirement for a power supply conduit extending between the main body and the cleaning head, which is particularly important for pull-along cleaners as this avoids the need to extend a power cable along the hose.

The power source preferably comprises at least one battery and the cleaning head includes an electrical connector in communication with the enclosure for connecting the at least one battery to an external power source for charging. The batter is preferably contained within a sealed enclosure within the cleaning head which need not be the same sealed enclosure as the actuator.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a vacuum cleaning apparatus comprising a cleaning head having a lower surface which in use is located adjacent a surface to be cleaned; an airflow channel defined within the cleaning head having a first end configured for connection to a vacuum source, and a second end defining an opening proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head through which a vacuum is applied to the cleaning surface; at least one vibration element located proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head arranged to apply vibration to the cleaning surface when the cleaning head is located adjacent thereto; and at least one vibration actuator for causing the at least one vibration element to vibrate. The at least one vibration element is hingedly mounted within the cleaning head and the vibration actuator is arranged to cause the vibration element to rotationally vibrate about the hinge.

In vibration mechanisms of the prior art the vibration plate is typically linearly actuated in a vertical direction and connected to a motor via a linkage. Hingedly mounting the vibration plate and having the actuator impart a force to rotate the bar advantageously removes the bending moments generated by the vertically actuated arrangements as the forces imparted to the bar are supported by the hinge rather than generating a bending moment along a linkage member.

Preferably the at least one vibration element comprises a vibration bar having a lower surface for impacting the cleaning surface to impart vibration thereto, and an upper surface connected to the corresponding at least one vibration actuator, with the vibration actuator being mounted on the upper surface of the vibration bar. Mounting the actuator directly on the bar avoids the need for any linkage mechanism and enable the actuator to be contained and sealed within the enclosure and freely supported on vibration bar.

The vibration actuator preferably comprises at least one motor and at least one corresponding weight member arranged to be rotated by the motor, the weight member being arranged such that its centre of mass is eccentric from the rotation axis of the motor to cause vibration during rotation.

The vibration actuator may be arranged such that the weight member is rotated in a direction substantially orthogonal to the rotational axis of the hinge.

The weight member is preferably rotated in a direction away from the hinge such that it is moving downwardly at the point of rotation furthest from the hinge and upwardly at the point of rotation closest to the hinge.

The cleaning head comprises transverse and longitudinal axes with the longitudinal axis in use defining the direction of travel, and front and rear edges with the front edge in use defining the leading edge of the cleaning head, and the vibration bar is preferably arranged transversely across the cleaning head.

The upper surface of the vibration bar may include a channel configured to receive the at least one vibration actuator.

The vibration element is a vibration bar comprising an elongate solid impermeable member. This prevents the through flow of debris carrying air to the actuator mechanism.

The cleaning head is preferably configured to be directly in contact with the floor covering, and is connected (in the case of an Up-Right vacuum cleaner) to the existing motor/filter assembly, by means of a fixed vacuum/suction tube.

In the case of a “cylinder” or “pull along” or a Centralised [Installed into the fabric of the building] type of vacuum cleaner) the new cleaning head may be connected by means of a flexible vacuum/suction hose

The proposed new designs of cleaning heads may incorporate (depending on the design of the finished item) the following features:

One, or more, full width, vibrating bars/membranes, which impart vibrations deep down into the carpet fibres to encourage the dirt/debris to become air-borne, and sucked up into the vacuum air flow. The position of these carpet vibrators/agitators may vary, due to design constraints, for smaller, or larger, cleaning head designs. The vibration inducing components will be completely sealed, in order to stop the ingress of dirt and dust, and they will have a very long service life, providing for a design that will work as it is intended, and will not clog up with hair or debris. They will also require very little, or no, maintenance to be carried out by the user of the various new products which are based on the principles of the invention.

The vacuum cleaning apparatus of the claimed invention may be provided as an after-market, stand-alone cleaning head configured to be retro- onto any existing vacuum cleaning system, where it can therefore replace existing cleaning heads.

It has been found by the applicant that the inclusion of electrically powered vibrating bars/membranes (utilising integral rechargeable battery cells) dramatically improves the cleaning power of the vacuum systems in use today. At least one vibrating bar/membrane may be positioned in the centre of the vacuum plenum area of the cleaning head, unless the design calls for more bars/membranes in order to accommodate a larger cleaning area, for example, in a commercial application, in which case the cleaning head may incorporate more than one full width bank of vibrating bars/membranes, and these may be positioned towards the front and rear edges of the cleaning head and may also incorporate only a central row as for the single row, in the first instance, thereby providing the possibility of having a cleaning head containing multiple rows of vibrators. As long as each vibrating bar/membrane has sufficient vacuum, and vacuum plenum, around it, the head could thus have multiple sets of vibrator bars/membranes.

The main vacuum and air pressurisation parts of the cleaning system, utilise a dual-chamber, connecting hose, wherein one chamber supplies the vacuum, and the other supplies the pressurised air. In one variant of the cleaning system, the supply of electricity to the vibrating membrane is maintained via electrical cabling contained within ducts formed in a flexible hose. This hose has two chambers, wherein one chamber is utilised for connecting the source of vacuum to the cleaning head, and the other chamber, is utilised for the delivery of the boosted high-pressure air.

The system may utilise two air cleaners/filters in a partly closed-loop arrangement, which necessitates that the high-pressure air, which is being sent to the cleaning head, is clean and dust free. This is particularly relevant to the quality of the air exhausted into the room/area, being cleaned. The level of noise created by the movement of the exhaust air is kept to a minimum by means of an exhaust attenuator, or silencer, which reduces the noise to an acceptable level.

In various embodiments of the invention, alternative means of agitation may be utilised including or in addition to vibrational agitation. These include:

-   -   Agitation by means of a motor, wherein the motor is either         electrically driven, or driven by means of air, and applies the         agitation by use of an eccentric weight, which operates in an         out-of-balance state.     -   Agitation by means of an electrostatically driven, flat         membrane.     -   Agitation by means of oscillating Electromagnets.     -   Agitation by means of a series of in line, cylindrically         orientated, encapsulated, electric motors, wherein each motor         drives an eccentric weight on its shaft.     -   Agitation by means of a vibrating membrane or a vibrating beater         or bar.     -   Agitation by means of a turbulent supply of air.     -   Agitation by means of a pneumatic system, which can operate via         the direct supply of air, or via air movement created by means         of the vacuum used for cleaning, or by use of both methods         together.

In one embodiment vibration is imparted to the cleaning surface only in combination with a vacuum. In another embodiment vibration may be applied together with both a vacuum and the provision of an auxiliary air supply, at the cleaning head. In one variant of the invention, this latter method, can, in its simplest form, involve utilisation of the source of vacuum to draw-in ambient air which causes agitation of the material being cleaned, via specially shaped air entry ducts formed in a particular variant of the design of the new cleaning head. Other variants can involve the range of alternative means described above, for achieving agitation of the material being cleaned.

The electrically powered vibration actuators, utilising rechargeable battery cells which are integral with the cleaning head, will dramatically improve upon the effectiveness and ease of use of the systems in currently in use.

An additional feature of the present invention is the incorporation of rearwardly directed banks of brushes, or bristles, which are set at an angle of greater than 90 degrees with reference to the plane of the surface being cleaned, and orientated so that they skim over the surface of pet, or human hair, when the cleaning head is pushed forwards, but snare the pet or human hairs, when the head is pulled backwards. Then, when the cleaning head is pushed forwards again, the hairs are released into the vacuum air flow and removed.

In order to assist maneuverability over the surfaces to be cleaned, at least two small wheels can be incorporated into the vacuuming face of the cleaning head. Alternatively the sucked-in ambient air may be re-directed to the cleaning head to provide lift to reduce friction with the cleaning surface. In systems which also incorporate high pressure air, this high pressure air can be used for this purpose in a specially designed cleaning head.

Maneuverability can also be assisted by use of encapsulated, or socketed, spheres, which resemble ball bearings, mounted at suitable locations on the base of the cleaning head.

In the new complete vacuuming system, a new design of motor, driving a dual-turbine arrangement involving one turbine which produces a vacuum, and another turbine which produces high-pressure air, enhances the cleaning process without the accompanying damaging effects found with existing, high-powered vacuum cleaning systems.

The invention also includes means for electronic control of air flow systems, and vibration systems, which enable it to be used on all household floor coverings and floor finishes.

In a further embodiment of invention a single digital motor, whose drive shaft extends from both ends of the motor, may be attached two turbine impeller units. One end of the motor shaft may be fitted with a turbine impeller in order to create a vacuum which sucks air through the cleaning head system whilst filtering out dirt as it passes through. The other end of the motor shaft drives a compressor turbine unit, which re-pressurises a high percentage of the waste air exhausted by the vacuum system. In conventional vacuuming systems, this exhaust air is normally just filtered and returned to the room, but in the present invention this air is returned under a higher pressure to a jet-blade vent, which directs clean air deep into the carpet. This twin turbine system thus makes better use of the power consumed by the vacuum cleaner and enhances the deep cleaning of floor coverings.

The digital motor includes a control system to control motor speed and to turn the motor on and off.

A high pressure air jet-blade is created which directs clean, high pressure air, deep into the carpet fibres, thereby separating them, and consequently loosening the dirt and debris that has been ground into them, and into the carpet backing, by the action of constant foot traffic.

Preferably the air jet is provided in combination with one or more vibrating bars as described herein. The combination of the agitation and debris loosening action of the vibration bar together with the air jet directed into the cleaning surface has been found to dramatically improve the cleaning action of the cleaning head, and has been found by the applicant to provide a significant improvement over either the use of vibration bars or air jets in isolation.

In a further embodiment there may be provided a dust separation unit which comprises multiple slotted tubes arranged in a grid pattern making use of the high/low pressures that are inherent within such a layout, in order to allow the dirt and debris to settle out of the airflow, without the need for the high airflow speeds that are required by cyclonic systems

In a further embodiment there may be provided noise reduction means for reducing noise caused by vacuum generation, and/or high pressure air generation, and/or for reducing noise caused by by-pass air flow, by use of an attenuator system, in order to reduce the level of noise before it leaves the main body of the vacuum cleaner.

It is pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that the electrical means for agitation of the material being cleaned can either be via a direct supply of electricity at the cleaning head, for instance from batteries contained in the head, or it can be provided from batteries, or from a power supply, wherein either source of electricity is located remotely from the head. In these two latter cases, cables connecting the source of electricity with the means for agitation, and for any other purposes, can then be routed either directly inside conventional vacuum/air tubing, or via ducts formed in specially designed, vacuum, and/or pressure tubing.

On-off control of the supply of electricity, can then be either via direct switching, or, if batteries are utilised in the cleaning head, via direct switching or by remote switching, using sonic methods, or those based upon the control of electromagnetic signals, for instance of those of radio frequency, wherein, receiving equipment at the power source can be turned on and off by means of a transmitter operated by the user, which sends encoded control signals to a receiver, which decodes, and acts upon, these signals, located at the source of power. Another method utilises fibre optics cable, routed in the same ways as already described for the supply of electricity by cable, wherein control signals can be sent down the cable in order to switch digitally controlled circuitry. A yet further method involves multiplexing and decoding of control signals sent down the electrical or optical cable.

Remote control is particularly useful for allowing the user to switch off the equipment if, for instance, the telephone rings, or some other reason for turning off the equipment becomes necessary. However, for reasons of ensuring safety, it is pointed out that where the main source of vacuum, and/or high-pressure air, is switched off remotely, it is important to ensure that the supply of power to this main source cannot be switched back on again, remotely, but requires the user to go back to the main source in order to switch it back on again.

Another useful safety feature is to incorporate means for ensuring that, in the event of the user falling ill, or collapsing, the cleaning head and any associated auxiliary source of power, are both turned off if the user is not holding the cleaning head in such a way that it stays on. This can be implemented in a number of different ways; one way is to require two switches to be operated in order to turn on the equipment, whilst one “held in the on position, non-locking” switch, ensures that it stays on, whereupon, if the latter switch is released, power is turned off. Alternatively, the process of switching on can involve the method already described, wherein two switches have to be held on, in order to start the apparatus, but wherein only one switch needs to be in the on position, but without needing to be held in this on position. This will assist the user in being aware of safety factors, but will represent a less involved method of use, for general operation, and is useful if young children, who must not use the system, are in the vicinity.

Another safety feature is to incorporate a timing control into the system so that it automatically turns off after a pre-settable time has elapsed, after being first turned on.

A further safety feature is to incorporate a recorded message into the apparatus so that when either of two switches is turned to the on position, a message informs the user of the need to follow certain safety guidelines.

A flip-over cover for the “turning on” switch, wherein, for ease of turning off, the “turning off” switch is not covered, will make the operation of the system somewhat safer when children are in its vicinity.

In a further embodiment the cleaning head can incorporate at least one source of illumination, for instance light emitting diodes, in order to illuminate the area being cleaned, in order to assist the user in ensuring that dirt and debris are being removed effectively. The cleaning head can also incorporate an image sensing system into the design of the cleaning head of the vacuum system. For instance this can be based upon the use of either, a miniature, still, or video, camera, or a microscope camera, that can capture images of the area being cleaned. This is particularly useful for determining the extent of dirt and debris on, and in, surfaces which are hard to see, due to inaccessibility. It is also useful for determining the extent of, for instance, dust mites in a mattress. Where paid-for work involves vacuum cleaning, the use of visual recording methods can provide means for ensuring that staff do their job of vacuuming efficiently. The means for providing these facilities can involve miniature camera technology, and mobile phone technology. Software in a microprocessor system incorporated into the cleaning system can then be used to identify, and record, the various surfaces available to be cleaned, so that the beater bar can, for instance, be turned off when a hard surface is recognised, and turned on when a soft surface is recognised.

The cleaning head may also incorporate a manually operated switch, or a combined automatic sensing system and switch, wherein the sensing system differentiates between hard surfaces such as wooden floors, or laminated floors, or linoleum, or the like, and soft surfaces such as carpets, and the like. This will allow the vibrating bars and vibrating membranes to be switched off when such hard surfaces are observed or detected, and switched on, when such soft surfaces are observed or detected.

One method of sensing may utilise apparatus which sends out a sound signal and also senses its reflection. This therefore affords means for differentiating between a surface which is a relatively good reflector of sound, such as the hard surface of a wood floor, and a surface which is a relatively poor reflector of sound, such as the soft surface of a carpet.

Another method of sensing may involve the sending out, and reception back, of light reflected from the hard and soft surfaces. In this case, the options are to sense different levels of light intensity but at varying frequencies of light radiation, for example, those embracing a range of colours. Pre-recording of a whole range of hard and soft materials can then be incorporated into microprocessor based techniques for automatically controlling the use of agitation in the vacuum cleaning system. Such recordings of a whole range of materials can either be part of the package of equipment supplied in the “as bought” equipment, or the facility for recording when the cleaning system is used, can be provided as a feature of the “as bought” equipment. In either case, updates of the latest floor surfaces can be provided over the Internet, over the voice telephone network, or via memory sticks, or compact disks, or via other memory devices. The retailers of floor coverings or of vacuum cleaners, could provide these facilities.

Yet another method, based upon the use of the camera techniques already mentioned under 5, above, can involve visual recording of the surfaces to be vacuumed, so that image recognition software can then be used to differentiate between hard and soft surfaces, and hence be used to switch off, and on, respectively, the agitation mechanism. Once again, visual information about particular floor coverings can be pre-programmed into the microprocessor based equipment incorporated into the cleaning head, as described under 8, above.

Any of the above systems which involve recognition of the surface being cleaned will necessitate that, in order to switch the agitation mechanism off, and on, effectively, the system be constructed so that there is instant feedback to the electronic control circuitry.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a vacuum cleaning assembly comprising a cleaning head having a lower surface which in use is located adjacent a surface to be cleaned; an airflow channel defined within the cleaning head having a first end configured for connection to a vacuum source, and a second end defining an opening proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head through which a vacuum is applied to the cleaning surface; at least one vibration element located proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head arranged to apply vibration to the cleaning surface when the cleaning head is located adjacent thereto; at least one vibration actuator for causing the at least one vibration element to vibrate; and at least one air flow nozzle having a distal end located proximate the lower surface configured for connection to a pressurised air supply and arranged to supply a jet of pressurised air to the cleaning surface.

The airflow nozzle is preferably located within the airflow channel of the cleaning head and directs the jet of pressurised air to the cleaning surface in the opposite direction to incoming flow of debris carrying air into the airflow channel created by the vacuum source.

The outlet of the airflow nozzle preferably comprises an elongate slot extending transversely across the width of the cleaning head. The nozzle preferably comprises front and rear walls which define an air channel and which taper inwardly in the downwards direction towards the outlet of the nozzle.

The source of pressurised air preferably comprises a first turbine assembly in fluid connection with the airflow channel and configured to create draw air inwardly through the cleaning head via the airflow channel. The airflow carrying debris passes to a debris receptacle intermediate the cleaning head and the first turbine where the debris is removed from the airflow. A second turbine is arranged to receive the outlet airflow of the first turbine. Preferably a filter is located intermediate the first and second turbines to remove any remaining debris. The second turbine is configured to receive the pre-pressurised airflow from the first turbine and to generate and outlet airflow of elevated pressure which is directed to the airflow nozzle of the cleaning head. In order to describe the invention in more detail, reference will now be made to the accompanying diagrams.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a vacuum cleaning according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a two-dimensional, schematic diagram of the basic features of one variant of the invention;

FIG. 3 shows a three-dimensional, schematic diagram of the basic features of one variant of the invention;

FIG. 4 shows a two-dimensional, schematic diagram of one configuration of the basic features of one variant of the invention;

FIG. 5 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 6 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 7 shows a two-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 8 shows a two-dimensional, schematic diagram of the components of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 9 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 10 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 11 shows a two-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 12 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 13 shows, a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 14 shows a two-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 15 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 16 shows a three-dimensional, diagram, in cutaway form, of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 17 shows, a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 18 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of some of the functional components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 19 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention, in operation;

FIG. 20 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention, in operation, in operation;

FIG. 21 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 22 shows a three-dimensional, diagram of the components of a variant of a cleaning head utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 23 show three-dimensional, diagrams of the components of a variant of a design of crevice tool system utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 24 shows three-dimensional diagrams of the components of a variant of a design of crevice tool system utilised in the application of the invention;

FIG. 25 shows an airflow schematic according to an embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 26 shows a cleaning head with air jet according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference to FIG. 1, a cleaning head 102 of a vacuum cleaner includes a main body 104 comprising a leading front edge 106 and a rear edge 18, with a longitudinal axis of the cleaning head being defined from front to rear of the cleaning head 102 and a transverse axis being defined across the cleaning head 102 orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The cleaning head includes a lower surface 110 which engages the cleaning surface. Internally the cleaning head 102 includes an airflow channel 112 defined by an inner wall 114 which is in fluid connection at its upper end 116 to the vacuum source and at its lower end defines a suction opening 118. In a vacuum is applied to the cleaning surface via the airflow channel 112 and debris carrying air is carried into the channel 112 via the opening 118.

A vibration chamber 120 is provided at the front edge of the cleaning head 102, outside the flow channel 112. However, the channel 120 may also be provided within the flow channel 112 in an alternative embodiment. The chamber 120 is defined by a front wall 122, a rear wall 124 and upper wall 126, with the lower edges of the front and rear walls defining an opening 128. The channel 120 is elongate and preferably extends transversely across the entire width of the cleaning head 102, with the ends of the channel being closed and defined by the side walls of the cleaning head 102.

A vibration bar 130 is located within the opening 128 and is rotatably mounted to the rear wall 124 by a hinge 132. The vibration bar is elongate and extends transversely the full width of the chamber 120. The vibration bar 130 in section has a curved or cupped profile defining a channel 134 in its upper surface which locates and houses a motor 136. The motor 136 is cylindrical and is connected to an eccentric weight element 138. The channel 134 and motor 136 are located at towards the front distal edge of the bar 130 to optimise vibration of the bar 130. Rotation of the weight 138, the centre of mass of which is eccentric to the rotational axis of the motor generates a vibration which is directly transferred to the vibration bar 130 which in turns imparts this vibration to the cleaning surface via its lower surface. The motor 136 weight member 138 is rotated in a direction substantially orthogonal to the rotational axis of the hinge. The weight member 138 is rotated in a direction away from the hinge such that it is moving downwardly at the point of rotation furthest from the hinge and upwardly at the point of rotation closest to the hinge 132. Preferably a plurality of the actuators including the motor 136 and weights 138 are located at spaced locations along the length of the bar 130.

A silicon seal 140 is connected to the free distal end of the bar 130 and to the adjacent front wall 122 of the chamber 120 and extends along the entire width of the bar 130 and chamber 120. The flexible seal 140 seals the gap between the bar 130 and the chamber 120 while allowing the bar to vibrate unhindered. The seal 140 is a silicone membrane having a bellows type configuration. A flexible silicone seal is also provided along the hinge 132.

In the arrangement shown in FIG. 1 a second chamber 121 is located on the rearward side of the airflow channel 112 having substantially the same configuration as the front chamber 120, including the corresponding sealed vibration bar assembly. In an alternative embodiment one of more of the channels may alternatively or in addition be provided within the airflow channel 112, with the sealed nature of the chamber ensuring that ingress of debris into the vibration actuation mechanism is prevented despite its location in the debris pathway.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic, two-dimensional view, it can be seen that air, together with the accompanying vacuumed debris removed from the surface being cleaned, passes into the cleaning head, and then to a filter, before entering a turbine, which is the source of the vacuum. Filtered air from this turbine, then passes into another filter, and, upon leaving, is partially vented to atmosphere, via a by-pass valve. This is to maintain the quality of the air passing around the system, and to keep the level of odour in the ambient atmosphere, to a minimum. One type of suitable filtering material is activated charcoal.

The remaining air then passes into a compressor turbine, which is either driven on the same shaft as that driving the vacuum turbine, as shown, or is driven in tandem with it via an appropriate gearing mechanism. Compressed, filtered air, from this turbine, is then returned to the cleaning head, from which it then exits onto the surface being cleaned, thereby serving both to assist in spreading, for instance, the fibres of the material being cleaned, for example a carpet, and to create turbulence in the air in, and around, the material. This agitated air thus picks up dirt and debris which will be carried away in the vacuum air stream.

With reference to FIG. 3, which represents a schematic, three-dimensional view of a vacuum cleaning system, 1, a cleaning head, 2, provides means for applying a vacuum, created by means of a vacuum turbine, 3, and delivers it to the surface, 4, being cleaned, via vacuum tubing, VT, whilst also supplying a directed source of air to this surface from a compressor turbine, 5, via compressor tubing, CT. The direction of air flow in the system is indicated by arrows.

Agitation of the structural components, of the surface, 4, for instance the fibres of a carpet, is achieved by means of a range of alternative mechanisms, which are incorporated into the cleaning head, 2, of the system. These are described in detail, later, and utilise various methods of vibration for achieving agitation of the material being cleaned.

The control of vacuum and pressure in the system is such that there is a net pull on the dirt, and debris, being removed from the surface, 4, and the supply of air at the cleaning head, 2, is augmented by use of the compressor turbine, 5. Turbines, 3, and 5, are driven by means of a motor, M, via a common shaft, S, as shown, or via one motor using an appropriate mechanism and gearing.

The main function of the additional air which is drawn in, is to disturb the dust and debris residing in the material being cleaned, and a second function is to maintain the quality of the air within the partially closed-circuit, cleaning system. The air circulating in the system needs to be kept fresh, and maintained at a suitable temperature, by replacing some of the heated, exhausted air, with cool ambient air swept from the area being cleaned, and this is assisted by the incorporation of a by-pass valve, 6, which bleeds a controllable percentage of air to the ambient atmosphere. A value of 25% is suggested as a reasonable percentage of by-passed air. It is important to ensure that this vented air does not re-enter the system, so means are provided for ensuring this by appropriate design of the system.

If experimentation shows that it is necessary, a separate, controllable supply of filtered, clean, cool, fresh air, can be provided via an additional auxiliary input valve, which may require additional cooling For the purpose of ensuring safety in the system, it is pointed out that pressure relief valves be incorporated into it.

With further reference to FIG. 3, air cleaning filters, F1, and F2, remove dirt, and debris, from the system, and are designed so as to be as easily emptied, and then recharged with filtering material when necessary. A useful feature of these filters is that the system incorporates means for indicating that they need emptying and recharging. This can be achieved by arranging for an indicator light, e.g. a light emitting diode, or diode assembly, to be turned on when replenishment is necessary, or by arranging for a beeping sound, or other indicating method, to be used. Vacuum sensing and measuring devices can be utilised to indicate this state, wherein the sensors sense that the degree of vacuum has fallen below a pre-settable level.

Filter assembly, F1, represents the main means for removal of dirt and debris from the air leaving the cleaning head, 2, whilst filter, F2, provides a second stage of filtration before air from the vacuum turbine, 3, enters the compressor turbine, 5.

The means for applying the source of vacuum, 2, is used for removal of all of the dirt-laden, high-pressure, air, leaving a jet-blade vortex created by the auxiliary supply of air from the compressor, from within the fibres being cleaned, and, in addition, this source of vacuum is required to draw in, through the fibres which are being agitated, an additional percentage of air from the ambient air supply, so that the high-pressure air from the compressor does not push any dirt and debris outwards, to the region surrounding the cleaning head.

The head thus needs to be designed so that disturbance of the air in the fibres of, say, a carpet, takes place in a centralised region, with the vacuum applied outside of this region, and within, the confines of the part of the head which makes contact with the surface being cleaned.

The venting of air from the vacuum turbine, via by-pass valve, 6, means that the compressor needs to be designed so that it can cater for this loss of air in the system, and thus supply sufficient air to maintain the required air flow from the cleaning head, into the material being cleaned. Consequently, the system requires the high-pressure air from the compressor turbine, to be supplied at a much higher pressure than that of the exhaust air from the vacuum side of the main vacuum turbine, after it has passed through the valve 6, assembly. In case there should be any difficulties arising from the inability of the system to quickly supply high-pressure air, a ballast tank, either implemented as an attachment, or integrated as part of the main system, together with appropriate additional automatic valves, and valve control, will assist in ensuring that air flows are maintained. Thus, with yet further reference to FIG. 3, an electronic motor control unit, ECU, controls the supply of electricity to the motor, M, which drives the vacuum and compressor turbines, 3, and 5, respectively, and a by-pass valve-control-unit, VCU, controls the supply of electricity to the by-pass valve, 6. It is pointed out that ECU and VCU, are shown as boxes in this schematic diagram, but are actually part of a master electronic control unit.

In order to provide means for properly controlling the system so that it can be used for cleaning soft and hard surfaces, means are necessary for turning on, and off, the vibrator mechanism (not shown in the diagram) in the cleaning head, 2, when a soft surface (for example that of a carpet) or a hard surface (for example that of a wooden floor) respectively, are encountered. This aspect of the invention is described in detail, later.

With reference to FIGS. 4, and 5, which represent schematic, two dimensional, plan views, of the system shown in FIG. 3, these show the directions of the flow of air in the system, for two of the types of surface to be cleaned.

Thus, with reference to FIG. 4, this shows the situation that operates for cleaning hard surfaces such as wooden floors, linoleum, and the like, wherein high-pressure air is not essential for cleaning purposes. It can be seen that the two-position gate valve, V1, is in its re-circulation position. This position of valve, V1, is either a consequence of the detection, by apparatus in the cleaning head, 2, that it is over a hard surface, such as that of a wooden floor (i.e. not a carpet) or is a consequence of a switch being placed in its “hard surface” setting, by the user of the vacuuming system, after the user has observed that a hard surface is to be cleaned. These two modes of detection (one automatic, and one human) thus ensure that the actuator of valve V1, energises it so that valve, V1, moves to the “re-circulate” position wherein air is caused to re-circulate within the compressor turbine, and not to travel, at high-pressure, towards the cleaning head, 2; the medium pressure air leaving vacuum turbine, 3, being fully vented to atmosphere via by-pass valve, 6 in order to allow the vacuum turbine to exhaust its “pulled-in”, air.

With reference to FIG. 5, this shows the situation that operates for cleaning soft surfaces such as carpets, and the like, wherein the actuator driving valve, V1, will move valve, V1, into the position in which the medium pressure air leaving the vacuum turbine, 3; after filtration by filter, F2, is diverted into the high-pressure turbine, 5, for re-compression, and is then sent to the air jet (to be described later) of the cleaning head, 2. This position, of valve, V1, is a consequence of the detection, by apparatus in the cleaning head, 2, that it is over a soft surface, (for example, a carpet) or is a consequence of a switch being placed in its “soft surface” setting, by the user of the vacuuming system, after the user has observed that a soft surface is to be cleaned.

It is pointed out that, where a variant of the vacuum cleaning head, 2, does not involve the use of high-pressure air, but does use agitation, implemented by various means to be described later, valve V1, is in the position such that the compressor turbine, 5, just re-circulates air, whilst the agitation mechanism in the cleaning head is either off, for hard surfaces; or on, for soft surfaces.

The main application for the various designs of cleaning head is to replace existing cleaning heads that are used on conventional vacuuming systems, but they can equally be used with the self-contained system, as desired.

For the other basic variant of the vacuuming system, which involves agitation, together with vacuuming, and, the supply of pressurised air, valve V1, is in the position such that the compressor turbine, 5, provides high-pressure air to the cleaning head, 2.

Now that the basic principles of the invention have been described, by reference to schematic diagrams, specific reference will now be made to diagrams which show particular methods, and apparatus, for achieving cleaning, based on various principles of the invention.

Thus, with reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 6, a vacuum cleaning head system, 7, utilises a motor, 8, which is either electrically powered, or powered by other means, such as a source of high-pressure air, or a source of vacuum, and is removably, or permanently, fixed to a rectangular shaped beater bar, 9. Motor, 8, has, mounted on its drive shaft, 10, an eccentric weight, 11. Cylinders, C1, and C2, are removably, or permanently, fixed to the beater bar, 9, and piston arrangements, P1, and P2, are each located within cylinders C1, and C2, respectively, such that the tops of these piston arrangements are removably, or permanently, fixed to support elements, S1, and S2, respectively. The action of the eccentric weight, 11, rotating inside the motor housing of the motor, 8, is such as to cause beater bar, 9, to oscillate up and down, whilst this action is damped by the action of the piston and cylinder assemblies, P1, P2, C1, and C2, wherein damping can be by means of air compressed and decompressed in the cylinders, C1, and C2, or by means of compression springs inside C1, and C2, or by means of a hydraulic mechanism inside C1, and C2. The oscillation of beater bar, 9, thus disturbs the fabric of the material being vacuumed, for example a carpet, thereby assisting the action of the vacuum applied via tube, VT7, to remove dirt and debris from the carpet.

In order to provide an adequate seal around the source of vacuum, the flat lower surfaces of short edges, SE1, and long edges, LE1, form the base of the cleaning head, which has a curved body, B7, having a generally semi-circular shaped cross-section. For reasons of clarity in the diagram, the vertically orientated, left hand side-wall of the body, B7, is shown removed, but it is pointed out that both side-walls of the cleaning head are closed. It is also pointed out that, whilst the body, B7, of the cleaning head system, 7, is shown having a semi-circular cross-sectional shape, this is not intended to be a limiting shape for any of the variants of the invention, and that the shape of any variant will be dictated by the particular application for the particular cleaning head, and by aesthetics, and the ease of manufacture, and the magnitude of any associated costs which are necessary to produce a desired saleable product.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 7, the vacuum cleaning system, 7, already described with reference to FIG. 6, is shown again, but as viewed from the left hand side, so that the various parts of the system can be more easily seen. Since the parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIG. 5, they are not described again.

With reference to the two-dimensional view shown in FIG. 8, the vacuum cleaning system, 7, already described with reference to FIGS. 6, and 7, is shown again, but in side elevation as viewed from the left hand side. Since the parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIGS. 6, and 7, they are not described again.

With reference to the two-dimensional, view shown in FIG. 9, the vacuum cleaning system, 7, already described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, is shown again, but as viewed from the front. Since the parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, they are not described again.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 10, the vacuum cleaning system, 7, already described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7, 8, and 9, is shown again, but with less internal detail than that shown in FIG. 5, for the purpose of clarity in the diagram. In addition, the part identified as IVT, represents the inside of the vacuum tube, VT7. Since the other parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7, 8, and 9, they are not described again.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 11, a vacuum cleaning system 20, contains components which utilise a method for agitation of the material being cleaned, based upon the principles of operation of an electrostatic loudspeaker, wherein, vibrations are created in the ambient atmosphere, by the use of an electrostatic membrane, or diaphragm, 21, which is sandwiched between an upper perforated plate, and a lower perforated plate, wherein each plate has a series of holes formed in it, giving rise to a so-called grid plate assembly. In such electrostatic loudspeakers, an electrical audio signal of a particular frequency, and intensity, generates vibrations in a so-called, diaphragm, and so, transfers these vibrations, through the grid of holes, to the ambient atmosphere above, and below, the grid plates, thereby creating representations of the original sounds supplied to the loudspeaker system.

This same principle is used in the cleaning head, 20, wherein, in the grid plate assembly, GP, the lower plate, LR, has a series of holes, H, formed in it, whilst the upper plate, UP, also has holes, and it can be seen, from the enlarged diagram at top left in FIG. 11, that the acoustic chamber, ACH, has an arcuate shaped roof, which extends along the whole of the length of the grid late assembly, GP, wherein the acoustic chamber, ACH, redirects the vibrations caused by oscillation of the electrostatic membrane, or diaphragm, 21, through the holes, H, and thence to the region below and around these holes, H. These vibrations are thus transferred to the structural components of the material being cleaned, for instance, a carpet, thereby agitating the fibres of the carpet being vacuumed, in order to disturb the dirt and debris residing in it, so that it enters the vacuum air stream.

The various other parts of the system are support structures, 22, 23, 24, and 25, and, in a way similar to that utilised for cleaning head, 7, already described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10, in order to provide an adequate seal around the source of vacuum, the flat lower surfaces of short edges, SE2, and long edges, LE2, form the base of the cleaning head, which has a curved body, B20, having a generally semi-circular shaped cross-section. For reasons of clarity in the diagram, the vertically orientated, left hand side-wall of the body, B20, is shown removed, but it is pointed out that both side-walls of the cleaning head are closed.

For the purposes of safety, due attention needs to be paid to insulation from electric shock and to preventing a fire hazard. The possible build up of static electricity also needs to be investigated, and therefore limited.

One aspect of this means of vibration is that it can, conceivably, involve the use of music and the like, as the source of sound for creating the vibrations, whilst also providing music for the benefit of the user, of course, provided that the level of ambient noise is not too great. Experimentation will determine the most appropriate frequency, and intensity, of sound to be used.

This method of agitation is particularly suited to the cleaning delicate fabrics, and delicate materials. It is also possible that certain frequencies of sound can kill dust mites, but it is also true to say that certain frequencies of sound may be harmful to the user, so care needs to be exercised in choosing the frequency and intensity of the sound which is utilised.

With reference to the two-dimensional view shown in FIG. 12, the vacuum cleaning system, 20, already described with reference to FIG. 11, is shown again but side elevation, as viewed from the left hand side. For the purpose of establishing clarity in the diagram, part of the left hand side edge, LE2, has been removed, so that the component parts of the grid plate assembly, GP, can be more easily seen. With reference to the enlarged diagram to the left of FIG. 11, the membrane, 21, can thus be clearly seen sandwiched between upper grid plate UP, and lower grid plate, LR. Since the other parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIG. 10, they are not described again.

It is pointed out that the means of connection to the necessary electrical power supply and associated control circuitry, are not shown in the diagram, but that this power supply, and the associated control circuitry, will either be located in casing remote from the cleaning head, 20, or parts or all of it will be located within the cleaning head casing.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 13, the vacuum cleaning system, 20, already described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, is shown again, but with part of the left hand side-wall of the cleaning head removed for the purpose of clarity in the diagram. Since the other parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIGS. 11, and 12, they are not described again.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 14, a vacuum cleaning head system, 30, utilises an electromagnetic system comprising two electromagnetic assemblies, 31, and 32, to oscillate a beater bar, 33, which disturbs dirt and dust in the material being cleaned, thereby sending it into the vacuum air stream, which is supplied via vacuum tube, VT30. The internal solenoids, 34, and 35, of electromagnetic assemblies, 31, and 32, respectively, are removably, or permanently, fixed to rectangular shaped beater bar, 33, and the casings of assemblies, 31, and 32, are removably, or permanently, fixed to the inside of the casing, B30, of the cleaning head system, 30, by means of internal support structures, 36, 37, and 38, 39, respectively. The action of oscillating the solenoids, 34, and 35, thus vibrates the beater bar, 33, and consequently disturbs the dirt and debris residing in the material being cleaned, and sends it into the vacuum air stream.

As already described with reference to earlier Figures, in order to provide an adequate seal around the source of vacuum, the flat lower surfaces of short edges, SE3, and long edges, LE3, form the base of the cleaning head, which has a curved body, B30, having a generally semi-circular shaped cross-section. Similarly, for reasons of clarity in the diagram, the vertically orientated, left hand side-wall of the body, B30, is shown removed, but it is pointed out that both side-walls of the cleaning head are closed. Identifier, IVT, refers to the inside of vacuum tube, VT30.

With reference to the two-dimensional view shown in FIG. 15, the vacuum cleaning system, 30, already described with reference to FIG. 14, is shown again, but in side elevation, as viewed from the left hand side. Since the other parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIG. 14, they are not described again, but it can also be seen that the lower left of the diagram shows an alternative method for imparting vibrations to the material being cleaned, wherein, the beater bar, 33, is contained within an envelope comprising upper and lower, flexible membranes, UM, and LM, respectively, which are held between supporting frame members, 38L, left, and 38R, right. The envelope is sealed by means of these supporting members, and is also sealed at its front and rear ends.

As vibrations are imparted to the beater bar, 33, by oscillation of solenoid shafts, 34, and 35, the membranes thus provide means for creating waves of compressive and de-compressive air above the surface of the material being cleaned.

Now that the various methods used for implementing vibration to the surface being cleaned have been described, more detail concerning one of the methods is provided.

Thus, with reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 16, a vacuum cleaning head system, 40, utilises a series of three, in-line, encapsulated, cylindrical vibrating motors, M1, M2, and M3 (not identified in this diagram, but identified in FIG. 17, following) which are similar to the type already described with reference to FIGS. 6, to 10, inclusive, but have their shafts in line with one another, in a direction which as at right angles with respect to that of shaft, 10, shown in those Figures. The motors, M1, M2, and M3, are contained within an encapsulating outer sheath, ENC (seen in more detail in FIG. 16) and impart vibrations to a rectangular shaped beating bar, 41. The motors are so-called vibrating motors, and are of the type utilised for imparting vibrations to materials and objects, in various industrial applications.

With further reference to FIG. 16, internal structural members, 42, and 43, each support a piston and cylinder arrangement, P40, C40, and P41, C41, respectively, to which the beater bar, 41, is attached. Beater bar, 41, can either be removably attached to C40, and C41, or formed as part of the structure of the C40, C41, pair. Pistons, P40, and P41, are removably or permanently fixed to support structures, 42, and 43, respectively.

As already described with reference to earlier Figures, in order to provide an adequate seal around the source of vacuum, the flat lower surfaces of short edges, SE4, and long edges, LE4, form the base of the cleaning head, which has a curved body, B40, having a generally semi-circular shaped cross-section. Similarly, for reasons of clarity in the diagram, the vertically orientated, left hand side-wall of the body, B40, is shown removed, but it is pointed out that both side-walls of the cleaning head are closed.

It is pointed out, with reference to FIG. 16, that whilst three motors are shown in the diagram, the number, and size, of them, depends on the size of the vacuum cleaning head, B40, the degree of vacuum applied by it, and on the nature of the surface being cleaned.

With further reference to FIG. 16, it can be seen that the enlarged diagram at the top left, which represents an enlargement of the left hand part of the cleaning head, B40, shows the beater bar, 41, situated within the confines of a flexible membrane, 44, which is supported by means of a frame, 45. The combination of the beater bar, 41, and the membrane, 44, can be manufactured in a series of moulding processes, wherein the membrane, for instance one made from a rubber-like, flexible polymer, is attached to the perimeter of the beater bar, 41, at locations all around its flat side-faces, and at locations half-way down each side face. The same process can involve attachment to the frame, 45, or the frame can be attached subsequently, by other means. The frame can then supported by means of the structural members, 42, and 43, wherein the piston and cylinder arrangements, P40, C40, and P41, C41, are replaced by support members which connect the frame, 45, with members, 42, and 43. The vibrating motors, M1, M2, and M3, can then be attached to the beater bar, as already explained, and thus impart vibrations to the beater bar. It is pointed out that the means for driving the vibrating motors are not shown in the diagrams, but that they can either be via a self-contained rechargeable battery unit, or by means of an auxiliary power supply.

With further reference to FIG. 16, a yet further alternative arrangement for vibrating the beater bar, 41, is shown in the inset diagram to the bottom right, and in the enlarged diagram to the top right. Here, it can be seen that a linear vibration motor, 46, driven by means of a supply of electricity (not shown in the diagram) and which is of the type known as a linear resonant actuator, and used for imparting vibrations to objects, for example for vibrating trays containing materials which need to be shaken, is cylindrical in shape, and is located inside a cylindrically shaped depression, 47, formed in the top surface of beater bar, 41. A similar linear vibration motor, 46, is inserted in another depression formed in beater bar, 41, so that the two motors can impart vibrations to the beater bar. These vibration motors thus replace the cylindrically shaped motors, M1, M2, and M3, whilst the beater bar continues to be supported by means of piston and cylinder arrangements, P40, C40, and P41, C41. However, it is pointed out that the vibration motors, 46, can, instead, also replace the cylindrically shaped motors, M1, M2, and M3, in the application which involves the flexible membrane shown in the top left of the diagram, and applied in the way that has already been described with reference to the membrane arrangement. It is also pointed out that motors, such as motor, 46, can be temporarily, or permanently, fixed to one another in a “one on top of the other” configuration, so that the force imparted by them is increased.

Thus, in the same way that cleaning head systems already described, function, the reciprocating oscillation of beater bar, 41, against the material being vacuumed, disturbs the dirt and debris residing in it, and sends it into the vacuum air stream. It can thus be seen that the rectangular shaped region on either side of the beater bar, 41, is open to the surface below it, so that the vacuum can be applied to this surface, and so that the bar can make contact with it as it vibrates in a direction which is at right angles with respect to the plane of the flat base of the cleaning head, 40.

It is also pointed out, with reference to FIG. 16, that vacuum tube, VT40, can be connected to the flexible hose, or rigid tubing, of an auxiliary source of vacuum, thereby replacing the original head. It is pointed out that although tube, VT40, is shown fixed to main body, B40, it is, ideally, connected to it via a swivellable connector which will allow the cleaning head, 40, to be pushed under low lying objects such as chairs, and the like. This use of a swillevable connector applies, equally, to the use all of the previous cleaning head systems, and to those to be described now.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 17, the vacuum cleaning head system, 40, already described with reference to FIG. 16, is shown again, but in cutaway form, so that the parts of the system can be more easily seen. The three encapsulated motors, M1, M2, and M3, can now be seen, and, since the parts of this diagram have already been described with reference to FIG. 16, they are not described again. It is pointed out that although the flexible membrane arrangement involving parts 44, and 45, already described with reference to FIG. 16, is also shown in FIG. 17, it is to be assumed to be used in place of the general beater bar arrangement, as already described. It is also pointed out that some parts have been omitted from these diagrams in order to ensure clarity in interpreting them.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 18, a vacuum cleaning head system, 50, utilises an air blade, AB50, to deliver air, at high pressure, to the surface being cleaned, wherein the high-pressure air is delivered via compressor tube, CT50, and via appropriate flexible, or rigid, tubing, from a compressor (not shown in the diagram). The air blade, AB50, has left and right inclined side-walls, LW, and RW, respectively, and these walls have a series of holes, H1 (only the left hand one shown in the diagram) formed in them, which are connected to opposite holes, by means of cylindrically shaped tubes, T1 (only the left hand tube connecting hole, H1, is shown connected with the hole [not shown in the diagram] in the opposite wall, LW). The series of holes like H1, and tubes like, T1, allow the vacuum in the surrounding parts of the cleaning head, to equalise around the air blade, AB50. If these holes and tubes were not present, the vacuum would not be evenly distributed over the surface of the material being cleaned. It is pointed out, with reference to FIG. 18, that the left-hand side wall has been removed for the purpose of clarity in the diagram, and that in the operational cleaning head, both end walls will be closed.

In operation, a source of vacuum is applied to the surface being cleaned, via vacuum tube, VT50, whose cross-sectional profile is partly concentric with that of compressor tube, CT50. A suitable swivellable connector (not shown in the diagram) is used to connect the partially concentric tube arrangement to the flexible or rigid tubing utilised by the self-contained vacuum system already described.

The design of the body, B50, of the cleaning head system, 50, is such that it contains, two left and right vibratable beater bars, 51L, and 51R, within compartments on either side of the region where high-pressure air, and vacuum, are applied The left-hand compartment is shown having left and right side walls, L5, and R5, respectively, wherein the right hand compartment is similar. The two beater bars are driven by means of auxiliary actuating devices, shown as actuator AC5, for the left-hand compartment, where beater bar, 51L, is driven, and the driving devices can be operated by means of pulsing air supplies, electromagnetically operated solenoids, rotating cams, or any mechanism which can impart reciprocation to the beater bars. The beater bars are thus driven in an up and down manner, in a direction which at right angles with respect to the surface being cleaned. The action of oscillating the beater bars, 51L, and 51R, thus disturbs the dirt and debris residing in the material being cleaned, and sends it into the vacuum air stream which carries the dirt and debris away via vacuum tube, VT50. The long and short side edges of the base of the cleaning head, B5, form a seal around the source of high-pressure air, and the source of vacuum, as already described with reference to earlier Figures. The direction of air flow in the system is indicated by means of arrows.

As an alternative to the use of beater bars, membranes can be attached to the devices utilised for implementing reciprocation.

With reference to the three-dimensional views shown in FIG. 19, vacuum cleaning head system 50, already described with reference to FIG. 18, is shown again, so that the various parts of the air blade system can be more easily seen. Thus, holes, H1, H2, H3, and H4, serve to equalise the vacuum around the air blade, AB50, by distributing it via tubes, T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively (T2, T3, and T4) not shown in the diagram). Since the other parts shown in this diagram have already been described with reference to FIG. 18, they are not described again.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 20, the vacuum cleaning head system, 50, already described with reference to FIGS. 18, and 19, is shown again, so that the directions of the flow of air in the system can be seen. Since the other parts shown in this diagram have already been described with reference to FIG. 18, they are not described again.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 21, a vacuum cleaning head system, 60, utilises an air blade, AB60, to deliver air, at high pressure air, to the surface being cleaned, in the same way as already described with reference to Figures, 18, 19, and 20, but has the air blade coming to a narrower opening at its delivery end, so that a more concentrated jet of air is applied to the surface being cleaned. This design will thus provide more effective means for cleaning surfaces where cleaning is assisted by means of a high-pressure air jet. It is pointed out that the actual distance of the tip of the air blade from the surface being cleaned, will be subject to the results of experimentation carried out to determine the most effective distance. Since the parts shown in this diagram are similar to those which have already been described with reference to FIGS. 18, 19, and 20, and have a similar function, they are not described again.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 22, a vacuum cleaning head system, 70, utilises the principle of directing air jets to the surface being cleaned, but achieves this via the use of the source of vacuum applied via inner vacuum tube, 71, to draw in ambient air via slotted ports, 72, front, and 73, rear (air direction shown by arrows) formed in body, B70, whilst also using the centrally applied source of vacuum to draw in disturbed dirt and debris which has been dislodged from the material being cleaned, by the air jets formed by slots, 72, and 73. It is pointed out that whilst this method of cleaning may not be as effective as those previously described with reference to earlier Figures, which are based upon the beating of the material being cleaned, it does, nevertheless, provide a more simplified means for achieving cleaning, in that an additional supply of high-pressure air is not needed, and neither is a mechanism for imparting vibration in the material being cleaned. Consequently, the vacuum cleaning system, 70, can, like the systems already described earlier, be used to replace existing vacuum cleaning heads on existing equipment.

The system described with reference to FIG. 22, can of course, incorporate means for implementing vibration, if desired.

System, 70, can also be used with the self-contained source of vacuum already described with reference to FIGS. 2, to 5, inclusive, wherein the source of high-pressure air is turned off; wherein this represents another application for the said self-contained system.

With further reference to FIG. 22, it is pointed out that parts 74, and 75, and the parts, 77, and 78, can be formed so that the ends of each pair which are closest to the surface being cleaned, come closer together, thereby being tapered, and thereby applying a more directed, and concentrated jet of air to the material, via orifices, 76, and 79, respectively. Also, experimentation will determine the best dimensions and shape for the two slots, 72, and 73.

With reference to the three-dimensional view shown in FIG. 23, the vacuum cleaning head system, 70, already described with reference to FIG. 22, is shown again but as viewed from a different direction, in order to better show, parts of the system. Since the parts shown in this diagram have already been described with reference to FIG. 22, they are not described again.

With reference to the three-dimensional views shown in FIG. 24, a vacuuming crevice tool system, 80, consists of an outer, vacuum tube, 81, and an inner, high-pressure air, tube, 82, (shown in outline by the broken lines) which delivers high-pressure air, via nozzle, 83, to the surface being cleaned.

The source of vacuum removes dirt and debris which has been dislodged by the high-pressure air, from the material being cleaned, and this is sucked into tube, 81, via nozzle, 84. The nozzles 83, and 84, are shown to have an elliptical cross-section, but the most appropriate actual, cross-sections, will be determined by experimentation, and by the particular application for the system.

The other end of each tube, 81, and 82, is cylindrical in cross-section, in order to, more conveniently, allow connection of this end of the system to sources of vacuum, and high-pressure air, wherein screwable connector, 85, which has an internal thread (not shown in the diagrams) can be screwed onto a suitably designed connector, and so that the end, 86, of outer tube, 81, and end, 87, of inner tube, 82, can be connected to their appropriate sources of vacuum, and high-pressure air, respectively.

It is pointed out that connector, 85, is not intended to represent an actual means of connection, but only to show intention.

It is further pointed out that, the inner tube, 82, can be positioned, and held, within outer tube, 81, by means of structural support members, and that, alternatively, tubes, 81, and 82, can be moulded in one piece, or made by joining pieces together.

With reference to the three-dimensional views shown in FIG. 25, a vacuuming crevice tool system, 90, resembles crevice tool, 80, already described with reference to FIG. 24, and has an outer, vacuum tube, 91, and an inner, high-pressure air, tube, 92, (shown in outline by the broken lines) which delivers high-pressure air, via nozzle, 93, to the surface being cleaned.

The source of vacuum removes dirt and debris which have been dislodged by the high-pressure air, from the material being cleaned, and this is sucked into tube, 91, via nozzle, 94. The nozzles 93, and 94, are shown to have an elliptical cross-section, but the most appropriate actual cross-sections will be determined by experimentation, and by the particular application for the system.

With further reference to FIG. 25, it can be seen that an additional module, 95, is located at the vacuuming end of system, 90, and this can either be in the form of parts which are integrally moulded with a dual-tube system, involving tubes, 91, and 92, and to which additional operational parts are added, or it can be a totally separate, connectable part, which contains its own sub-parts. It can also be in the form of an attachable-detachable unit, wherein this unit can be held in one hand whilst the other hand holds the main crevice tool head. A yet further alternative is to provide means for continuing to hold both units in one hand but with the facility for adjusting the separation between the attachable unit and the main crevice tool, thereby catering for different styles of vacuuming.

In any of the above cases, the functional parts of the module, 95, perform the operation of vibration of an oscillating beater bar, 96, which has a rectangular cross-section, and has a rectangular shaped hole which allows high-pressure air and a source of vacuum, to be applied to the surface being cleaned. It is pointed out that although beater bar, 96, has a rectangular, holed cross-section, the bar, and the hole, can be of any suitable size, and shape that will effectively impart vibrations to the material being cleaned.

The vibrating bar, 96, is operated by means of sources of vibration which are contained within regions, 97U, upper, and 97L, lower (97L not shown in the diagram). These sources can be any of those which have been described with reference to earlier Figures, and the shape and size of regions, 97U, and 97L, will be as necessary in order to accommodate the required operational components.

Electrical power for driving the sources of vibration is provided by means of batteries which are contained within regions, 98, and 99, of the module, 95.

It is pointed out, with reference to FIGS. 24, and 25, that the designs of the crevice tool systems, 80, and 90, shown, are not intended to represent the only way for achieving the principles of the invention, and that other designs will involve more aesthetic shapes, and more functional parts.

Referring to FIG. 25 there is shown a system comprising a cleaning head 302 including surface detection sensors 304 locate along its leading edge. Actuated vibration bars 306 as defined above are located at the front and read edges of the cleaning head 302. Debris enters the cleaning head via the flow path either side of the air jet nozzle opening 310. Debris leaden air flows from the cleaning head 302 via the flow path 312 through the vacuum duct 314 to the main debris filter and collection assembly 316 where the debris is deposited and stored. The filter air passes from the collection assembly to the inlet of the first turbine 318. Typically air from the vacuum turbine is vented to atmosphere. However in the system of the present invention the outlet air from the first turbine 318 is passed to a second turbine 320 via medium pressure air duct 322 and a second stage filter 324. A continuous by-pass exhaust 326 with continuous 25% bleed off is proved between the filter 324 and the second turbine 320. The air flows to the second turbine via a medium to high pressure gate valve 328 having an actuator 330. A further high pressure gate valve 332 is providing for closing a closed loop back carrying recycled air to the turbine 320 from is outlet via the closed loop flow path 334 through the closed loop duct 336. A high pressure duct 338 leads from the second turbine to the cleaning head 302 directing high pressure air from the second turbine via a high pressure flow path 340.

Referring to FIG. 26 a cleaning head 402 has a direction of travel 404. The cleaning head includes one or more vibration bars 404 as describes above. High pressure air enters the cleaning head 402 via the flow path 406 with a jet of air being directed to the cleaning surface via the nozzle 408. While the air jet directs high pressure air into the carpet the vacuum draws ambient air through the carpet via the flow path 410 carrying debris 412 from the carpet 414. The debris carrying airflow then leaves the head for the main debris assembly via the outlet 416.

It is pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that, for applications involving the holding of the tube directly in the hand, the external shape of the various vacuum tubes, such as VT7, and the like, is usefully such that it can be easily gripped with the hand. Moreover, designing this part of the cleaning head, so that it can be removably attached to the body part, will allow it to be rotated about its longitudinal axis, and temporarily locked in place, to suit being held by the left, or the right, hand. Alternatively, any tube having a given external contour, can be made to fit the left or right hand, in any orientation, by careful design of a type of glove which fits over it, to provide the user with an adjustable, more convenient grip.

Moreover, handles, or handle gloves, which absorb vibrations can be used to reduce any extent of vibrational influence of the functional parts of the system on the user. Similarly, the system can be designed so that vibrations are absorbed, where necessary and desirable, by the use of appropriate absorbing materials and techniques.

It is further pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that the methods for producing vibrations in razors, and massagers, and the like, can be adapted to be incorporated into the design of the cleaning heads already described, and that the beaters/agitators referred to, can be made from plastic, or rubber, or other suitable materials, and that one method for catering for different floor coverings can be to use a resilient, but relatively soft, material, and in such a design, and way, that a hard surface will not be damaged by the beating/agitation action. A further alternative in this connection can be to utilise compression springs in order to dampen the beating effect on such hard surfaces, wherein there remains sufficient force available to effectively beat/agitate a soft surface.

It is yet further pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that means can be provided for manually, or automatically, adjusting the extent of the beating/agitation, and the extent of the beating/agitating force when different surfaces are encountered by the cleaning equipment. The apparatus can also incorporate means for adjusting the frequency and amplitude of the vibrations produced by the devices utilised for creating vibration.

It is still yet further pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that the principles described with reference to vacuuming, can be adapted to provide means for scraping, and shredding, wall, and ceiling, coverings from walls or ceilings, and for removing, by vacuuming, the scraped off material.

It is further pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that the various parts of the vacuum cleaning systems already described can involve functional parts which are assembled into a main cleaning head body.

Any of the beater bars described in the foregoing can be replaced with hinged flaps which are operated by means of any of the vibrating mechanisms described therein.

Design of the systems should be such as to minimise the transfer of vibrations to the user of the equipment.

The equipment can incorporate means for applying a jet of liquid, wherein the liquid can be either water or another suitable, safe, cleaning material. It can also incorporate means for applying a spray of the same materials. In a similar way, deodorising apparatus can be incorporated into the design of the cleaning head, and/or into the design of the self-contained vacuum turbine and compressor turbine, system. In any of these cases, the equipment needs to be resiliently, and safely, tolerant to these materials.

The supply of high-pressure air can be from a self-contained source, for instance a cylinder, or other container, which safely contains, and delivers, high-pressure air to the surface being cleaned.

The supply of high-pressure air can be from a compressor located outside of, or inside of, the cleaning head.

Any of the systems described can incorporate local, light-weight apparatus designed particularly for the elderly, and for use in vehicle cleaning, or in other confined and spaces.

The nozzles which direct the sources of vacuum and high-pressure air to the surface being cleaned can be adjustable with respect to both their distance from the surface being cleaned, and the range over which they can operate.

It is pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that, in the same way that the movement, and hence dangerous oscillation, of a liquid inside the tank of a road tanker, can take place, wherein this oscillation is controlled by the use of baffles inside the tank, such oscillation can be put to beneficial use in the cleaning head systems which utilise the principles of the vacuuming invention, by utilisation of the oscillation of a liquid, which has been set in motion, to impart vibrations in the container which holds the liquid.

It is also pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that when a beater bar is utilised without an associated membrane, the bar can make contact with the material being cleaned, or not make contact with it. When the beater bar is utilised together with a vibrating membrane, the membrane is less likely to come into contact with the surface being cleaned, due to the greater degree of vibrational disturbance of the ambient atmosphere by the membrane, than by the beater bar, when the latter is used alone.

Another practical example of this is the situation which arises when, for instance, an egg shaped container, which is not completely symmetrical, and contains a liquid, is put into oscillation by displacing it so that it rocks about its point of contact with the surface on which it is located. The lack of symmetry container thus causes the container to rock backwards and forwards, instead of rolling in a particular direction, which would be the case it the container was spherical. This could be utilised in implementing vibration when the principles of the invention are applied.

It is pointed out, with reference to this oscillation, that the principles manifest by thixotropic materials, which exhibit reduced viscosity when stress is applied to them, could also thus be applied in applications of the invention.

It is also pointed out that a material which changes its viscosity when an electric current, or a voltage, is applied to it, or any other force, or field, is applied to it, could also thus be utilised in the applications of the invention.

It is further pointed out, with reference to the foregoing, that in certain applications where a particular type of gas is required for treatment of surfaces or materials, the principles of the invention can be applied by use of self-contained supplies of such gases. These gases, could for instance, be inert, for one type of application, or active or highly active and corrosive, in others. An inert gas, could for instance, ensure that oxidation, or any other undesired chemical change, did not occur during vacuuming.

Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon. 

1. A vacuum cleaning apparatus comprising: a cleaning head having a lower surface which in use is located adjacent a surface to be cleaned; an airflow channel defined within the cleaning head having a first end configured for connection to a vacuum source, and a second end defining an opening proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head through which a vacuum is applied to the cleaning surface; at least one vibration element located proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head arranged to apply vibration to the cleaning surface when the cleaning head is located adjacent thereto; and at least one vibration actuator for causing the at least one vibration element to vibrate; wherein the at least one vibration actuator is located within a sealed enclosure which is sealed from the airflow through the airflow channel to isolate the actuator therefrom.
 2. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the at least one vibration element comprises a vibration bar having a lower surface for impacting the cleaning surface to impart vibration thereto, and an upper surface connected to the corresponding vibration actuator, wherein at least part of the vibration bar closes the sealed enclosure.
 3. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 2 comprising at least one wall forming a chamber defining the sealed enclosure, the chamber having an open end which is in part closed by the vibration bar.
 4. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 3 wherein a seal is provided between the vibration bar and the chamber to seal the chamber and prevent the ingress of debris.
 5. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 3 wherein a proximal edge of the vibration bar is hingedly connected to one edge of the chamber proximate the open end with a distal edge of the bar being rotatable relative to said hinge, and wherein a seal is provided between the distal edge of the vibration bar and the chamber configured to permit rotation of the vibration bar while maintaining a seal between the distal edge of the bar and the chamber.
 6. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the seal is a flexible membrane.
 7. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the hinged connection between the vibration bar and the chamber comprises a seal which permits movement of the hinge while maintaining a seal between the bar and the chamber.
 8. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning head comprises transverse and longitudinal axes with the longitudinal axis in use defining the direction of travel, and front and rear edges with the front edge in use defining the leading edge of the cleaning head, and wherein the sealed enclosure comprises a chamber having a front and rear walls oriented transversely to the direction of travel having lower edges which define at least in part the opening of the chamber with the vibration bar being located within the opening.
 9. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the vibration actuator comprises at least one motor and at least one corresponding weight member arranged to be rotated by the motor, the weight member being arranged such that its centre of mass is eccentric from the rotation axis of the motor to cause vibration during rotation.
 10. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the vibration bar is hingedly connected to one of the front and rear walls and the vibration actuator is arranged such that the weight member is rotated in a direction substantially orthogonal to the rotational axis of the hinge.
 11. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the weight member is rotated in a direction away from the hinge such that it is moving downwardly at the point of rotation furthest from the hinge and upwardly at the point of rotation closest to the hinge.
 12. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the upper surface of the vibration bar includes a channel configured to receive the at least one vibration actuator.
 13. A vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 wherein the sealed enclosure is located forwardly and outside of the airflow channel proximate the leading edge of the cleaning head.
 14. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 wherein a power source for the vibration actuator is contained within the cleaning head.
 15. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 wherein a power source for the vibration actuator is contained within a sealed enclosure and is in electrical communication with the vibration actuator.
 16. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 15 wherein the power source comprises at least one battery and the cleaning head includes an electrical connector in communication with the sealed enclosure that contains the at least one battery, wherein the electrical connector connects the at least one battery to an external power source for charging.
 17. A vacuum cleaning apparatus comprising: a cleaning head having a lower surface which in use is located adjacent a surface to be cleaned; an airflow channel defined within the cleaning head having a first end configured for connection to a vacuum source, and a second end defining an opening proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head through which a vacuum is applied to the cleaning surface; at least one vibration element located proximate the lower surface of the cleaning head arranged to apply vibration to the cleaning surface when the cleaning head is located adjacent thereto; and at least one vibration actuator for causing the at least one vibration element to vibrate; wherein the at least one vibration element is hingedly mounted within the cleaning head and the vibration actuator is arranged to cause the vibration element to rotationally vibrate about the hinge.
 18. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the at least one vibration element comprises a vibration bar having a lower surface for impacting the cleaning surface to impart vibration thereto, and an upper surface connected to the corresponding at least one vibration actuator.
 19. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 18 wherein the vibration actuator is mounted on the upper surface of the vibration bar.
 20. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the actuator is contained and sealed within the enclosure and freely supported on vibration bar.
 21. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the vibration actuator comprises at least one motor and at least one corresponding weight member arranged to be rotated by the motor, the weight member being arranged such that its centre of mass is eccentric from the rotation axis of the motor to cause vibration during rotation.
 22. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 21 wherein the vibration actuator is arranged such that the weight member is rotated in a direction substantially orthogonal to the rotational axis of the hinge.
 23. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 22 wherein the weight member is rotated in a direction away from the hinge such that it is moving downwardly at the point of rotation furthest from the hinge and upwardly at the point of rotation closest to the hinge.
 24. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the cleaning head comprises transverse and longitudinal axes with the longitudinal axis in use defining the direction of travel, and front and rear edges with the front edge in use defining the leading edge of the cleaning head, and wherein the vibration bar is arranged transversely across the cleaning head.
 25. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the upper surface of the vibration bar includes a channel configured to receive the at least one vibration actuator.
 26. A vacuum cleaning apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the vibration element is a vibration bar comprising an elongate solid impermeable member. 27-28. (canceled) 